Ballgowns are far from sweatpants. And these days, sweatpants consume my wardrobe entirely. To fulfill my closet dreams, I simply fantasize of what I would wear in my most glamorous, ostentatious, COVID-free life.
Netflix’s Bridgerton has increased such desire, or perhaps such jealousy. I envy Daphne’s diamond necklace, Marina’s yellow embroidered waist dress, Lady Danbury’s Swarovski-esuqe crystal-covered silver gown, and the Queen’s over-the-top wigs. Most of all, I envy the Duke’s vests (or maybe just his looks).
Set in 1813 London, the series transports my popcorn-covered body off the sofa and into an imaginary world of luxury. Costume designer Ellen Mirojnick told Vogue she created 7,500 looks with 238 people for the eight-episode series. With this immense number comes immense inspiration. Here’s how I incorporate the Regency-era style into my 2021 wardrobe:
Delicate florals
I simply have a weakness for florals. With Rodarte as one of my favorite designer brands, this comes as no surprise. This Reformation dress serves as a less expensive alternative to Daphne’s look. From bold to minimal, a floral print exudes spring vibes. For a truly Daphne-inspired look, I would dress it up with pearls (real or fake, of course).
Scooped necklines
Mirojnick utilized scooped necklines purposefully, symbolizing Daphne’s development to womanhood. She told Vogue, “We paid a lot of attention to the scooped necklines and how they fit the bust, as opposed to having a [straight] line that doesn’t allow you to see the body. This show is sexy, fun and far more accessible than your average restrained period drama and it’s important for the openness of the necklines to reflect that.”
If Daphne can amp up the sex appeal, I think I can too. College parties are basically the 2021 version of balls, right?
Sexy corsets
Siena did it best. But, I am shooting for second-best here. Due to my membership in the IBTC (Itty Bitty Titty Committee), I often shy away from revealing tops. On the contrary, Siena’s confidence reflected itself into her wardrobe. Despite her shaky relationship with Anthony Bridgerton, Siena consistently maintained her feminine power, and I want to do the same. Lyst reported that since the premiere of Bridgerton, online searches for corsets increased by 123 percent.
Even though I have no Queen to impress, a corset or bustier might do the trick to boost my confidence.
Gold accents
One thing Bridgerton taught me to embrace: luxury. Simply fake it ‘til you make it. Even though I have no castle and no suitors, perhaps living the most unglamorous of lives, I still deserve to feel grand. Bridgerton helped me channel Marie Antonette into each trip to my mini closet. From jewelry to eyeshadow, gold hues garner attention.
Bridgerton blues
The Bridgertons, my family of choice, color-coordinate impeccably. From Eloise to Anthony, the family’s color palette seems to match with ease. They constantly fashion blues and greens to signify their social standing as elites. These colors are not gawky or bold like the Featheringtons’ obnoxious yellows and magenta. The Bridgertons stand out despite their subdued tones, and you can too.
The biggest takeaway from the Bridgerton series: dress like somebody’s watching. Even if there’s no Lady Whistledown narrating the drama of your monotonous life, pretend she’s watching.
Soon enough, you’ll be the one turning heads.